Jessica Ewell

Dr. Jessica Ewell is an Associate Professor of Voice and Coordinator of the Sacred Music Program at the Franciscan University of Steubenville. She is celebrated for her interdisciplinary approach, blending vocal artistry with philosophical and theological scholarship. Her performances include appearances at Carnegie Hall, the Vatican, and with orchestras worldwide. She has won major international vocal competitions, including first prize in the Barry Alexander International Vocal Competition.

Education:

• Doctorate in Musical Arts, The Catholic University of America
• Master of Music, New England Conservatory of Music
• Bachelor's Degrees (summa cum laude), University of New Mexico

Research & Performance: Ewell explores music's capacity to convey philosophical and theological meaning. She combines classical training with Celtic folk, rock, jazz, and early music traditions. Her work emphasizes narrative-driven concerts that engage listeners in spiritual and intellectual journeys.

Awards:

• First Prize, Barry Alexander International Vocal Competition
• Third Prize, Concurso Internacional de Canto Lirico (Trujillo, Peru)
• Second Prize, Concorso Lirico Internazionale 'Jole de Maria'

Teaching & Leadership: She directs the voice track of Franciscan's Sacred Music Program and has taught in the U.S., Italy, and the U.K. Her lectures on music history and philosophy have been presented at institutions like the University of Notre Dame and the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Sacred Music Program, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue between music, theology, and ethics.